An M2A2 Bradley fighting vehicle leaves Forward Operating Base MacKenzie in Iraq. Credit: Shane A Cuomo / USAF.

The US Army Requirements Oversight Council has given a positive decision for the installation of Iron Fist Light (IFL) active protection system (APS) on the Bradley fighting vehicle.

The team providing the system comprises General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems (GD-OTS), Elbit Systems and Israel Military Industries (IMI).

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The decision will move the team to the second phase of APS development for the US Army’s Bradley vehicles.

General Dynamics ordnance and tactical systems armament and platform systems vice-president and general manager Steve Elgin said: “We are excited to move into Phase II and bring the vast capabilities of our active protection system to the Bradley fighting vehicle. We look forward to continuing to partner with the army on advancing this important technology, as well as enhancing integration capabilities across multiple army platforms.”

“In close-range scenarios, it offers 360° protection coverage in open terrain and urban environments.”

The Iron Fist APS, developed by IMI, uses independent optical sensors and tracking radar for accurate threat detection and situational awareness.

The system can also deploy countermeasure munitions to defeat threats such as guided missiles and tank rounds at a safe distance from the defended combat vehicles.

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In close-range scenarios, it offers 360° protection coverage in open terrain and urban environments.

Elbit Systems land division executive vice-president and general manager Yehuda (Udi) Vered said: “We are proud to support the US Army and cooperate with GD-OTS in delivering the Iron Fist Light, a sophisticated protection system that will enhance the capabilities of a variety of army platforms while defeating a wide range of threats.”

Development and deployment of active protection capabilities for the Bradleys is part of an urgent need identified by the US Army.

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